43 | Divorce, Co-Parenting & Special Needs Planning | Anna P. Krolikowska

Divorce is never easy, and when a child has additional support needs, the process can feel even more overwhelming. In this episode, Brian Keene sits down with family law attorney Anna Kay to talk through some of the biggest questions parents may face when navigating divorce while caring for a neurodivergent child or a child with disabilities. Anna shares practical insight on different divorce process options, including litigation, mediation, and collaborative divorce, and explains why being intentional early can make such a meaningful difference for families. The conversation also explores how parents can reduce conflict, communicate with children in age-appropriate ways, think through therapy schedules and medical decisions, and plan ahead for long-term financial and legal considerations. This episode is designed to offer guidance, encouragement, and a starting point for parents who may be trying to make thoughtful decisions during a difficult season. Whether you are currently navigating divorce or simply want to better understand what support can look like, this conversation offers helpful perspective and practical next steps. Topics Covered The difference between litigation, mediation, and collaborative divorce Why process choice matters for families of children with disabilities How to reduce conflict and protect children emotionally during divorce Why children should not be used as messengers between parents Planning for therapy schedules, medical decisions, and day-to-day logistics How special needs planning and trusts may protect long-term benefits Why working with the right professionals in your state matters The importance of self-care while navigating major family transitions Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:46 What parents can take away from this conversation 02:45 Divorce process options: litigation, mediation, and collaboration 10:27 Reducing conflict and protecting children emotionally 13:42 Therapy, medical decisions, and long-term planning 23:37 Helpful resources and final encouragement Memorable Quote "Please protect your children and shelter them during your divorces as much as you can." About the Guest Anna Krolikowska is a family law attorney who helps families navigate divorce with intention, clarity, and long-term planning in mind. Her work includes supporting parents of children with disabilities as they think through co-parenting, legal agreements, and future planning in a way that protects their children and helps families move forward. Resources Mentioned Anna Kay Law State bar associations Collaborative divorce associations American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Special needs trust planning attorneys About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com